With the off-seasis on comes the usual troupes.
Talk of expansion, the divisions talk, player movements and of course post-season rankings.
Today we're here to focus on the rankings. More specifically, the NRL bench specialists and their rankings from 2023.
Please keep in mind that these rankings are based only on 2023.
To qualify, a player must have played off the bench on a majority of appearances. They also cannot appear anywhere else in the rankings. i.e. Cam McInnes ranked in the top locks and thus won't be seen here.
Before we start, I'm going to take a moment to answer some of the usual questions to appear in the comments to any sort of rankings.
Do I even watch football? Yes, every game.
Are my eyes painted on? No. That would be funny though.
Who am I? Just a fan.
With that said, below are the top ten NRL bench specialists based purely and totally on 2023:
Honourable mentions: Wiremu Greig, Bronson Garlick, Emre Guler
5. Terrell May
Terrell May was an absolute monster across 2023 for the Roosters. His rise in the late season coincided with the Roosters run into the Finals.
Each of his 18 games this season came from the bench. He ran for spot on 100 metres per game, tackled at over 98% and broke 29 tackles. He even crossed for a try.
He averaged an offload a game, which creates second phase play for his talented halves and backline players.
May's trajectory is incredible. The Roosters will be looking to secure his long-term future ASAP as I guarantee he'll be in red hot demand.
Interesting, Dan
I’d have liked to see when each of these guys comes off contract.
I could look it up, but I’m just lazy !